Texas Gov. Greg Abbott recognizes home medical equipment professionals

AUSTIN, Texas – Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has proclaimed the second week of November as Home Medical Equipment & Services Appreciation Week to recognize the essential role of the professionals who make it possible for people of all ages and medical conditions to receive care safely at home.

This proclamation also coincides with Homecare Month and National Family Caregivers Month, highlighting the critical role of HME in the care continuum, stakeholders say.

“The true value of home medical equipment providers and their services is measured by the quality of life it makes possible,” said Mark Gowen, secretary/treasurer of the Texas Medical Equipment Providers Association (TexMEP). “It is a child with complex medical needs growing up at home with family, a patient recovering at home in familiar surroundings, or an individual living with a disability maintaining their independence. Behind each of those stories are the dedicated professionals whose expertise and compassion make an extraordinary difference. We thank Gov. Abbott for honoring those contributions to the people of our great state.”

The proclamation highlights the role of HME in:

• Reducing hospitalizations and health care costs
• Supporting families and caregivers
• Empowering individuals with complex medical needs to live at home
• Strengthening communities by keeping loved ones together

“By enabling care at home, HME benefits the entire state,” said Ashley Plauché of AAHomecare. “Home-based care is cost-effective for payers, taxpayers, and end users; eases the burdens on hospitals and long-term care facilities; and allows individuals to remain active in schools, workplaces, and communities.”

Pictured from left to right are Victoria Peterson of RespMed, president of TexMEP; Mark Gowen of Angel Medical Supply, secretary/treasurer of TexMEP; Ron Lucey, executive director of the Texas Governor’s Committee on People with Disabilities; and David Chandler, vice president of state government affairs and payer engagement for AAHomecare.

Photo courtesy of AAHomecare.